June 5th marks Ketchup Day, an occasion celebrating the rich heritage of this beloved condiment. Derived from the Chinese term "kê-tsiap," denoting a fermented fish sauce, ketchup's origins trace back to ancient times. The British encountered this sauce in Southeast Asia during the 17th century and endeavored to recreate its dark, fermented essence. Early renditions featured a mix of ingredients like mushrooms, walnuts, oysters, or anchovies. It wasn't until 1812 that the inaugural tomato-based ketchup recipe emerged, serving as a vital preservation method due to the fleeting tomato harvest season. Presently, a staggering 97% of Americans admit to having a bottle of this iconic sauce on their tables.